What does the drinking water bacteria test measure?

The drinking water bacteria test (also often referred to as a potability or purity test) measures the “absence” or “presence” of a group of bacteria called Coliform bacteria. “Absence” of Coliform bacteria is a good test. No count is provided if Coliform is “present”. E.coli, one type of Coliform bacteria, is evidence of raw sewage in the water.

Every Coliform bacteria test provides results on:
- Total Coliform Absent or Present
- E. coli Absent or Present

Coliform bacteria live naturally on the surface of the earth. They should not be in a sealed, cased well that has been properly maintained. Their presence in a well indicates a problem with the well.